SOUTHINGTON - A New Britain man accused of committing a burglary spree in Southington over the winter has been offered a plea bargain that would send him to prison for five years.

Angel Mercado, 35, allegedly burglarized five Southington homes at the end of January, according to the arrest warrants in the cases. Police allege he stole about $7,000 worth of goods and used a number of credit cards that were stolen, the warrants continued.

Mercado faces two counts of second-degree burglary and illegal use of a credit card, three counts each of third-degree burglary and fourth-degree larceny, one count each of third- and fifth-degree larceny and a number of other charges related to the thefts.

During a hearing Friday, in Bristol Superior Court, Mercado - who is being held on $250,000 bond - was extended a plea deal from state prosecutors. The deal includes a sentence of 10 years, suspended after service of five years in prison, and five years of probation. Mercado could make his decision on the deal as soon as Oct. 23, when he is due back in court.

According to the warrants, all five burglaries occurred at homes in the area of West Street, Juniper Road and Ridgewood Road. Some of them happened while the residents were inside their home.

About $7,000 worth of property was reported stolen during the break-ins, including electronics, ammunition, an air pistol and tools. Additionally, multiple victims said their credit or debit cards were taken.

According to the warrant, Mercado was seen on video surveillance at an area merchant using some of the credit cards stolen during the burglaries.

Justin Muszynski can be reached at 860-973-1809 or jmuszynski@bristolpress.com.